See Also:

Department of Psychology

Preparing for Graduate School

When should you start your preparation for graduate/professional school?

FRESHMAN YEAR - Start by obtaining a high grade point average (GPA) (at least 3.0 or higher). Begin to look into special programs such as NIGMS-MARC/U*STAR (National Institute of General Medical Sciences – Minority Access to Research Careers/Undergraduate Student Training in Academic Research) to gain research experience. Start developing your resume and personal statements. Help with this is available through the Office of Career Planning and Placement.

SOPHOMORE YEAR - Continue to maintain a high GPA. "Build up" your resume through summer internships, volunteer work in related fields, and research experience.

JUNIOR YEAR - Start looking seriously into the various areas of psychology and the different graduate schools. Be sure to attend the annual graduate/professional school recruitment day program. Send off for information on the requirements for graduate schools. You should also begin preparing for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Watch for special summer programs. (Try to use the summer to "build up" your resume).

SENIOR YEAR - The first semester of your senior year should be devoted to maintaining your high GPA, but at this time, you should also begin submitting applications to the different graduate schools. If you have not taken the GRE by now, do so. By the second semester of your senior year you should be waiting for acceptance letters or making plans to move on to your graduate institution.

NOTE: Information on the various graduate schools may be obtained online, from the library or the placement office. These sources will also provide information on fee waivers for admission applications as well as financial aid opportunities. Some information on graduate schools is also available from Ms. White in the Department Office.

In addition, students should utilize the Research Careers Office in Nabrit/Mapp/McBay Hall, Room 107. The RCO’s goal is to increase the number of Morehouse graduates pursuing research careers and completing graduate programs. This office provides a variety of support including: a Research Careers Club, GRE Preparation, counseling, recruitment opportunities, and a vast source of information on graduate schools, summer programs, and research opportunities.